Marcos to PNPA 2024 grads: Use tech know-how to protect public

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. graces the graduation rites of the Philippine National Police Academy Class of 2024 in Silang, Cavite on April 19, 2024. (Photo from PCO)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on Friday told the members of the  Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Class of 2024 to use their technological know-how in serving and protecting the public.

Addressing the “Layag-Diwa” Class at the PNPA in Silang, Cavite, Marcos said that most graduates are already digital natives.  

“I challenge you to leverage that technology that you are familiar with to aid in protecting and serving our people, especially in battling cybercrime,” Marcos said in his speech. 

The President said that there would be no substitution for doing work on the ground. 

“The fight against crime is now a potent mix of gadgets and war rooms, and old-fashioned grunt work, by gritty police officers. To those who will join the BFP (Bureau of Fire Protection) and the BJMP (Bureau of Jail Management and Penology), I expect you to maximize IT to improve your service deliveries while minimizing cost,” he said. 

Marcos said that the class’s name, “Layag-Diwa,” means to venture. 

“Bravely go where you are needed, carry out your mission that your duty requires, and bear any sacrifice your country demands of you. For each one of you, let ‘Layag-Diwa’ be your chart, your compass, in reaching your destiny,” said Marcos. 

Marcos awarded the Presidential Kampilan Award to Class Valedictorian Police Cadet Ma. Camille Cabungcal Cabasis. 

Vice President Sara Duterte, Interior Secretary Benjamin C. Abalos Jr., Philippine National Police chief   General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, and others likewise graced the graduation rites.